Business Today B-School Ranking (India)

The landscape of business education in India has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past few decades, with the rise of several prestigious institutions offering world-class management education. The ranking of business schools by Business Today, one of India’s leading business magazines, provides valuable insight into the institutions that stand out in terms of academic excellence, industry reputation, and overall performance. The survey conducted in 2006 by Business Today and AC Nielsen highlights the top 30 business schools in India based on various factors such as faculty quality, infrastructure, placement records, and industry interaction. This ranking offers prospective students a comprehensive guide to the best institutions for pursuing an MBA or other management-related programs in India.

At the top of the list stands the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad), which has consistently been recognized as the best business school in India and one of the most prestigious globally. Established in 1961, IIM Ahmedabad is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, and strong ties with the business community. The Post Graduate Programme (PGP) at IIM Ahmedabad is considered one of the most sought-after management courses in the world. With its strong emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, and case-based learning, IIM Ahmedabad provides its students with a platform to become leaders in the global business environment. The institution's alumni network, which includes some of the most influential names in business, further enhances its reputation and prestige.

Following closely behind is the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM Bangalore), which has earned its place as one of the leading business schools not only in India but also globally. Established in 1973, IIM Bangalore is known for its strong academic rigor, cutting-edge research, and highly skilled faculty. The institution offers a range of postgraduate programs, including its flagship two-year MBA, which attracts students from diverse backgrounds. IIM Bangalore's focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership makes it a popular choice for aspiring business leaders. Moreover, the institution's location in India’s tech hub provides students with unique opportunities for internships, industry exposure, and networking with professionals in the technology and startup sectors.

Another prominent name in the Business Today ranking is the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM Calcutta), which holds the third position. Established in 1961, IIM Calcutta has earned a reputation for its strong emphasis on finance, economics, and quantitative analysis. The institution’s flagship MBA program, known as the Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM), is one of the most respected management programs in India. IIM Calcutta's faculty is renowned for its research output, and the institution's alumni are spread across the corporate world, especially in the fields of finance, consulting, and marketing. The school is also well-regarded for its international collaborations and partnerships with global institutions, further enhancing its standing as a global business education provider.

Ranked fourth is the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management (SIBM) in Pune, which has become a leading name in Indian business education. Established in 1978, SIBM is part of the renowned Symbiosis International University. The institution offers a wide range of postgraduate management programs, including the flagship MBA in Business Administration. SIBM Pune is known for its emphasis on academic rigor, industry interaction, and leadership development. The MBA program at SIBM Pune is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in diverse industries, and the institution’s ties with the corporate world make it a preferred choice for employers. SIBM Pune's state-of-the-art infrastructure, diverse student body, and international exposure contribute to its strong reputation.

In the fifth position is the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow (IIM Lucknow), which was established in 1984. IIM Lucknow has quickly gained recognition for its high academic standards and diverse student community. The institution offers a range of management programs, including its prestigious Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM). IIM Lucknow's curriculum is designed to develop both academic knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for leadership roles in a rapidly evolving global business environment. The school is also known for its emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, and its proximity to the capital city of Uttar Pradesh offers students opportunities for networking and exposure to top industry leaders.

The Xavier Labor Relations Institute (XLRI) in Jamshedpur holds the sixth position in the Business Today ranking. Founded in 1949, XLRI is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious management schools. The institution is particularly renowned for its programs in Human Resource Management (HRM), which have earned it a strong reputation among HR professionals and organizations across India. XLRI also offers a Post Graduate Programme in Business Management (PGPBM) and is well-known for its commitment to social responsibility and ethical business practices. XLRI's strong focus on developing leaders who can balance business acumen with social consciousness sets it apart from other business schools in the country.

Ranked seventh is the Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) in Mumbai, which is known for its academic rigor and industry-oriented programs. Established in 1965, JBIMS has established itself as one of India’s leading business schools, particularly for its management programs that focus on finance, marketing, and human resource management. The institution’s proximity to Mumbai, India’s financial capital, gives students an edge in terms of internships, placements, and industry networking. JBIMS alumni occupy top leadership positions in major corporations, making it one of the most sought-after business schools in the country.

Indian Institute of Management Indore (IIM Indore) ranks eighth in the Business Today survey, reflecting its growing prominence in the Indian management education space. Established in 1996, IIM Indore has quickly become known for its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and focus on leadership development. The Post Graduate Programme in Management (PGPM) at IIM Indore is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of business concepts and leadership skills. The institution’s innovative approach to management education, combined with its excellent placement record, has earned it a solid reputation.

The Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) in Delhi, ranked ninth, is one of India’s most respected business schools. Founded in 1954, FMS is part of the University of Delhi and offers an MBA program that is both rigorous and affordable. FMS has consistently delivered excellent placement results, with its graduates securing top positions in major corporations. The institution is known for its strong emphasis on research, and its faculty members are actively involved in shaping the business and policy landscape in India.

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) in Delhi, ranked tenth, specializes in international business education. Founded in 1963 by the Government of India, IIFT offers a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) with a focus on global trade, marketing, and supply chain management. The institution’s expertise in international business and its strong connections with the government and industry make it a top choice for students aspiring to work in global trade and business.

As the ranking continues, institutions like the Indian Institute of Planning and Management (IIPM) in New Delhi, the Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM Kozhikode), ICFAI Business School in Hyderabad, and S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research in Mumbai continue to make significant contributions to the Indian management education landscape. These schools, although not always in the top 10, have a solid reputation for their academic programs, industry interaction, and placements.

The ranking also includes other distinguished business schools such as Welingkar Institute of Management, Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, and the Management Development Institute Gurgaon, each known for their strong academic programs, industry tie-ups, and global exposure.

In conclusion, the Business Today rankings provide a valuable resource for students aspiring to pursue an MBA in India. The institutions listed in the top 30 are renowned for their academic excellence, industry connections, and ability to develop leaders who are ready to face the challenges of the global business world. Whether it is the prestigious IIMs or the specialized programs offered by schools like XLRI or IIFT, these institutions play a critical role in shaping the future of business education in India. For prospective students, choosing a top-ranked business school is not only about obtaining a degree but also about gaining access to a world-class education that opens doors to global career opportunities.

Ranking of Top 30 B-school in India by Business Today (India's No.1 Business Magazine):

1 Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad
2 IIM Bangalore
3 IIM Calcutta
4 Symbiosis-Pune
5 IIM Lucknow
6 Xavier Labor Relations Institute
7 Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies
8 IIM Indore
9 FMS Delhi
10 IIFT Delhi
11 IIPM New Delhi
12 IIM Kozhikode
13 ICFAI Hyderabad
14 S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research
15 Welingkar Institute of Management
16 IIPM Mumbai
17 Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies
18 Tata Institute of Social Sciences
18 MDI Gurgaon
20 LIBA Chennai
21 Bimtech Delhi
22 XIM Bhubaneshwar
22 BIM Trichy
24 Nirma Institute of Management
25 IMT Ghaziabad
26 K J Somaiya
27 Christ College Bangalore
28 Amity Business School Noida
29 Osmania Hyderabad
30 Alliance Business Academy Bangalore

Source: Business Today- AC Nielsen 2006